Research Design
Research Design
This Capstone uses a comparative qualitative case study design to explore complex sociotechnical processes across four Bay Area jurisdictions: the City & County of San Francisco, Alameda County, San Mateo County, and Santa Clara County. The design captures both formal institutional structures and informal practices, while allowing for meaningful cross-jurisdictional comparison.
Key Benefits:
Captures formal and informal practices (policies, procedures, and professional judgment)
Enables cross-jurisdiction comparison to identify patterns, divergences, and causal mechanisms
Produces actionable insights relevant to local government, policymakers, and community stakeholders.